ClaudeLeroyNICKERSON

NICKERSON, Claude Leroy 90, of Urbana passed away on Monday, March 18, 2013 in his home surrounded by family. He was born May 16, 1922 in Ocean City, New Jersey the son of Claude LeRoy Sr. and Esther (Weaver Gorgas) Nickerson. Claude served his country in the United States Army during WWII. He began his service at Fort Dix, NJ and later became a First Lieutenant in the United States Army. While serving in the Philippines, Claude served under General Eichelberger and received an Air Medal, Philippine Campaign Badge, and an Army Service Medal. Claude received a Kentucky Colonel membership. He graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. Claude worked as a Civil Engineer in the cities of Urbana and Cambridge, Ohio. He helped construct Salt Fork St. Park Lodge, Savannah Nuclear Power Plant and the antenna for NORAD. Claude was a lifelong member of the American Legion in Urbana. Claude was a member of the Urbana Rotary Club and the planning commission for Logan and Champaign counties where he was a Past President. Claude served as the Worshipful Master during the 100th Anniversary of Guernsey Lodge #66 F&AM. He was a Past Master in Harmony Lodge #8 F&AM, where he was a plural member. He was a member in the Ohio Valley Scottish Rite. For his dedication to the York Rite bodies, Claude received the Knight York Cross of Honor. He served as Worthy Patron in the Guernsey Chapter #211 and the Elizabeth M. Hood Chapter, O.E.S. He is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, Enid (Breau) Nickerson; son, Claude Lane Nickerson, Urbana; daughter, Gail (Dennis) Lee, Carmel, Indiana; grandchildren: Mike and Dan Lee, Carmel, Indiana; nephews, Kirk Nevius, Sommerdale, New Jersey and John Nevius, Egg Harbor, New Jersey. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Jeanne Nevius. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, March 21, 2013 in the VERNON FUNERAL HOME, Urbana, where masonic services will be held at 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday in the funeral home with Pastor Daniel Powell officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Dale Cemetery, Urbana. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Spina Biffida Association (SBA), 4590 Macarthur Blvd, NW, Suite 250, Washington, D.C. 20007 or to the donor's favorite charity. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.vernonfh.com.